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WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange allowed to appeal extradition from Britain to US

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WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange allowed to appeal extradition from Britain to US

Julian Assange has been granted permission to appeal against extradition to the U.S. by arguing that he might not have free speech rights in a U.S. court. The appeal is based on concerns that he could be discriminated against as a foreign national. Assange is wanted in the U.S. on 18 charges related to WikiLeaks’ release of secret U.S. documents. The appeal was welcomed by his supporters, who gathered outside the court. If the ruling had gone against him, Assange could have been extradited to the U.S. within 24 hours. U.S. assurances that Assange could rely on First Amendment protections were deemed inadequate by his legal team. The appeal will now cover all 18 charges against him.

Hamas leader Sinwar, facing ICC warrant request, plotted Oct 7 attack

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Hamas leader Sinwar, facing ICC warrant request, plotted Oct 7 attack

Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader in Gaza, was imprisoned by Israel for 23 years before rising to a leadership role in the militant group. He made a speech in December 2022 promising a fierce strike against Israel, which was carried out less than a year later in an assault that killed 1,200 people. Sinwar had a history of punishing collaborators with Israel and has been devoted to the destruction of Israel and killing Jews.

ICC prosecutor’s move against Netanyahu and Gallant is ‘scandalous’, Israeli minister says

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ICC prosecutor’s move against Netanyahu and Gallant is ‘scandalous’, Israeli minister says

The International Criminal Court prosecutor is seeking arrest warrants for Israel’s Prime Minister and Defence Minister, as well as three leaders of Hamas, over alleged war crimes. Israel’s Foreign Minister called the request “scandalous” and opened a special war room to counteract the move, which he believes is aimed at tying Israel’s hands in exercising its right to self-defence. Katz also plans to urge foreign ministers of leading countries to oppose the prosecutor’s decision.

UK’s infected blood scandal could and should have been avoided, inquiry finds

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UK’s infected blood scandal could and should have been avoided, inquiry finds

An infected blood scandal in Britain led to 3,000 deaths and thousands more contracting hepatitis or HIV due to doctors and governments fault. Over 30,000 people received infected blood in the 1970s and 1980s, destroying lives, with some blood products being made from high-risk donations. The government hid the truth to save face. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is expected to apologize on behalf of the state. The scandal rocked trust in the medical establishment. The infected blood products were used for transfusions and treatments, with some haemophiliacs receiving Factor 8 concentrates with a high risk of infection. Between 80 and 100 people became infected with HIV by transfusion, and about 26,800 were infected with Hepatitis C. The British inquiry found systemic failures and lack of meaningful apology or redress. The inquiry does not have the power to recommend prosecutions. Former health minister Edmond Herve in France was convicted for his role in the scandal.

In divided Iran, president’s death met by muted mourning and furtive celebration

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In divided Iran, president’s death met by muted mourning and furtive celebration

Iran declared five days of mourning for President Ebrahim Raisi, but the response was subdued compared to previous senior figure deaths. Despite prayers and mourning, most shops remained open. Raisi’s crackdown on anti-establishment protests in 2022-2023 led to opposition celebrating his death. Critics do not expect significant change in the regime after his passing. Raisi’s legacy is divisive, with supporters praising his work ethic and opponents condemning his role in past executions. Many Iranians believe another hardline figure will replace him, continuing the current regime’s policies.

Stone, roses and vines

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Stone, roses and vines

Fact: The Vassiliades family owns the Oinou Yi vineyard and focuses on producing fine wines for consumption in Cyprus and abroad.

‘We were taught to be ashamed of our Cypriotness’

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‘We were taught to be ashamed of our Cypriotness’

Fact: Cyprus is a place that has been enriched by many hands and voices down the centuries, making it a living example of cultural synthesis and innovation.

Troodos observatory unveiled

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Troodos observatory unveiled

The Troodos astronomical observatory was officially unveiled in Agridia, Cyprus, as part of the EU project ‘Geostars’ aimed at promoting similar endeavors in Cyprus and Greece. The project was co-funded by the EU and the governments of both countries, with a budget of €2,678,400. The observatory will be used to promote the development of mountainous areas and attract investments in alternative tourism.

Green NGO calls to make public those responsible for Akamas , ‘destruction’

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Green NGO calls to make public those responsible for Akamas , ‘destruction’

The Environmental Movement of Cyprus is calling for those responsible for the destruction of Akamas to be held accountable for their actions. They are demanding the immediate publication of the latest investigation into illegal interventions in Akamas and are urging President Nikos Christodoulides to make the findings public and name those responsible.